LANSING, MI – “Today, Gov. Whitmore signed into law legislation capping the tax on premium cigars at 50 cents per cigar. The Michigan legislature has again put Big Tobacco above the health of Michiganders by giving the industry a tax break. It is important that tobacco taxes apply to all tobacco products at an equivalent rate to encourage people to quit rather than switch to a cheaper product as well as to prevent youth from starting to use any tobacco product.
“Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death. For example, almost 30 percent of cancer deaths in Michigan can be attributed to smoking. ACS CAN is disappointed that at a time when cigars are the second most commonly used tobacco product by Michigan high school students, Michigan lawmakers have decided to permanently cap the tax on these products.
“ACS CAN looks forward to working with the legislature to put proven tobacco control measures in place, including increasing tobacco prevention and cessation funding and increasing the tax on all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.”
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About ACS CAN at 20
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) makes cancer a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. ACS CAN empowers volunteers across the country to make their voices heard to influence evidence-based public policy change that saves lives. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and made workplaces, including restaurants and bars, smoke-free. As we mark our 20th anniversary, we’re more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers and save more lives from cancer. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.